What is 2D Animation?
2D (two-dimensional) animation is the process of creating the illusion of movement in a flat, two-dimensional space. In traditional 2D animation, animators draw each frame by hand. However, for digital work, they use 2D animation software.
Here’s a quick breakdown of several important 2D animation concepts:
- Frame-by-frame: Artists draw each frame to have more control over the motion and minute details. While this process takes more time, it also allows for creative freedom.
- Tweening: When artists want to speed up the production process, they use digital 2D animation software that fills in frames between key poses.
- Rigging: Think of this process as controlling a puppet. Animators build a “skeleton” for their characters and add “skin” so they can easily control the movements.
- Cut-out style: A budget-friendly method, this involves moving flat characters and objects bit by bit, either with physical materials or digitally.
- Isometric art: Artists use this illustration method to make 2D objects appear three-dimensional (3D) and create a sense of depth. You often see this style in video games and explainer videos.
What do 2D animators do?
2D animators design characters, backgrounds, and other visual elements. They work on projects like TV shows, movies, video games, and marketing videos. They sketch storyboards, design keyframes, add movement and expression to characters, and animate images and scenes using software or traditional drawing tools.
What do people use for 2D animation?
Artists use traditional methods (hand-drawn frames) and digital tools. Popular 2D animation software includes Adobe Animate, Toon Boom Harmony, TVPaint, and After Effects.
Why do people use 2D animation?
People gravitate to 2D animation because it’s significantly simpler, faster, and cheaper to create than 3D animation but can be just as effective and versatile. You’ll typically see this style in adverts and explainer videos because it enables animators to explain complex ideas.
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What's the difference between 2D and 3D animation?
In 2D animation, characters and scenes are flat and move in the 2D plane (x and y-axis). In 3D animation, characters and scenes move along 3 axes (x, y and z-axis). Compared to 2D animation, 3D is more expensive to produce but also allows for more realistic movement.
How long does it take to make a 5-minute 2D animation?
Producing a 5-minute-long 2D animation typically takes weeks, but it can also take much longer. The timeline depends on the features, artistic style, and resources available.
Frame-by-frame animation takes more time, especially when drawing by hand. 2D animation software like Toon Boom or Adobe Animate can help speed up the process.
